An occupational injury with minor consequences refers to health impairment suffered by an employee as a result of external factors during the performance of work duties, which causes a disruption to the employee's health but involves minimal or no period of temporary incapacity for work.
Typically, such cases do not require extensive medical intervention, and the employee is discharged from medical care shortly after health stabilization. The injury does not lead to significant long-term impairment or loss of work capacity.
As a result, the employee is generally able to return to their original job position safely and continue performing their duties for the employer without the need for reassignment, long-term treatment, or occupational rehabilitation.
What Is an Occupational Injury with Minor Consequences?
An occupational injury with minor consequences is understood primarily as:
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Minor injuries (abrasions, cuts, bruises to limbs)
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Mild muscle or joint contusions
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Sprains or strains
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First-degree minor burns
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Injuries resulting in a short period of incapacity for work (usually up to 3 weeks)
Although such injuries typically do not have long-term effects on the employee’s health, they still require responsible handling.
Procedure Following an Occupational Injury with Minor Consequences
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Treatment of the Injury
Use the workplace first aid kit, consult the company doctor, or visit the emergency department of the nearest hospital.
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Reporting the Injury to a Supervisor
Immediately notify your employer of the occupational injury.
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Seeking Medical Attention
Obtain examination and treatment by a qualified healthcare professional to prevent possible worsening of your condition due to inadequate care.
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Obtaining Medical Confirmation of Treatment
This document is important for further proceedings, including justification for absence from work.
Reporting the Occupational Injury
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Entry in the Accident Book: The employer is required to record every occupational injury in the company’s accident book.
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Injury Report: For minor injuries without incapacity for work, the employer generally does not prepare a formal injury report.
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Documentation of Medical Treatment: Keep all medical reports and documents related to the treatment and course of the injury.
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Certificate of Temporary Incapacity for Work: Provided if the medical professional recognizes incapacity.
Compensation for Occupational Injury with Minor Consequences
As an employee, you are entitled to all relevant compensation arising from the occupational injury. However, certain forms of compensation may not apply (e.g., compensation for impaired social functioning, as such limitations are typically resolved through treatment).
Compensation for Loss of Earnings During Temporary Incapacity
If your occupational injury is recognized and you are temporarily incapacitated, you are entitled to:
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Compensation for the difference between your average earnings before the injury and sickness benefits received.
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This compensation is paid by your employer (or their insurance provider) for the entire duration of your incapacity.
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The advantage is that compensation amounts to your full average earnings (minus the sickness benefit).
Compensation for Pain and Suffering (Pain Compensation)
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Calculated based on a point evaluation of pain by a medical expert.
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Even minor injuries may give rise to a claim for pain compensation.
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As of January 1, 2024, the value of one point is CZK 384.00.
Examples of point evaluation for minor injuries:
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Wrist sprain: 30–80 points
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Mild concussion: 30–60 points
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Muscle contusion: 10–30 points
Reimbursement of Reasonable Expenses Related to Treatment
You may claim reimbursement for costs not covered by public health insurance, such as:
Employee Advice
Even an occupational injury with minor consequences can affect your health and financial situation. By diligently documenting the injury and asserting your claims, you ensure appropriate compensation.
Remember that even seemingly trivial injuries should be properly treated and documented, as their effects may manifest later.
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